Singel and Kromwijkerwetering via Jaagpad

Starting from the outskirts of Utrecht, near the well-known Utrecht Zuilen railway station, this 25 km (about 15.5 miles) loop follows the historic Jaagpad towpath along the Singel and Kromwijkerwetering waterways. With virtually no elevation gain, this easy route is ideal for walkers of all abilities, offering a tranquil escape through the Dutch polder landscape.

Getting There

Reaching the trailhead is straightforward. Utrecht Zuilen station is well-connected by frequent trains from Utrecht Centraal, Amsterdam, and other major cities. From the station, it’s a short walk to the start of the Jaagpad. For those arriving by car, parking is available at the station or in nearby residential streets, though spaces can fill up quickly on weekends.

Route Overview and Navigation

The Jaagpad, once used by horses towing barges along the canal, is now a peaceful path for walkers and cyclists. The route traces the Singel canal before looping along the Kromwijkerwetering, passing through a patchwork of meadows, waterways, and small villages. The entire loop is flat, with a total elevation gain of less than 5 metres (16 feet), making it accessible year-round. For navigation, HiiKER provides detailed maps and waypoints, ensuring you stay on track even where signage is sparse.

Landmarks and Points of Interest

- Utrecht Singel: The hike begins along the historic Singel, Utrecht’s outer canal, which dates back to the Middle Ages. The canal was once part of the city’s defensive moat system, and remnants of old bastions and city walls can still be seen. - Oog in Al: Around 3 km (1.9 miles) in, you’ll pass the Oog in Al park, a green oasis with stately trees and a 17th-century country house, now a public library. - Kromwijkerwetering: At about 10 km (6.2 miles), the route transitions to the Kromwijkerwetering, a narrow waterway lined with reeds and willows. This section is especially rich in birdlife—look for herons, coots, and the occasional kingfisher. - Dutch Polder Landscape: Between 12 and 20 km (7.5–12.4 miles), the path meanders through classic Dutch polder scenery: flat fields, grazing cattle, and windmills in the distance. The land here was reclaimed from marshes centuries ago, and the network of dikes and drainage canals is a testament to Dutch water management ingenuity. - Small Villages: The route skirts the edges of small villages like Maarssen and Oud-Zuilen, where you can detour to visit the historic Slot Zuylen castle, dating to the 13th century and once home to the writer Belle van Zuylen.

Nature and Wildlife

The wetlands and meadows along the Jaagpad are a haven for wildlife. In spring and summer, wildflowers line the path, and the air is filled with the calls of lapwings and skylarks. The waterways support a variety of fish and amphibians, and the reed beds are nesting grounds for marsh birds. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times for wildlife spotting.

Trail Conditions and Preparation

The Jaagpad is mostly surfaced with compacted gravel or asphalt, suitable for walking shoes or lightweight hiking boots. Some sections can be muddy after rain, so waterproof footwear is recommended in wet weather. There are several benches and picnic spots along the route, but few shops or cafes outside the villages, so bring enough water and snacks for the day. Public toilets are available at Utrecht Zuilen station and in Oog in Al park.

Historical Significance

This route offers a glimpse into the Netherlands’ centuries-old relationship with water. The Singel and Kromwijkerwetering were vital for transport and trade, and the surrounding polders are the result of generations of land reclamation. The presence of historic estates, castles, and old towpaths adds a layer of cultural depth to the landscape.

For those seeking a leisurely, scenic walk through the heart of Dutch waterland, this route is a perfect choice. Use HiiKER for up-to-date trail maps and navigation support.